Win over KKR a big step forward: Dravid

Dubai, 2014/Apr/30 13:47:00

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Rajasthan Royals mentor Rahul Dravid feels that to come up trumps in a thrilling 'Super Over' finish is a "huge step forward" towards getting the team together for a common goal which is to win the seventh edition of the Indian Premier League.

"Last night's win was a huge step forward for the team. A win like this works wonders for the team spirit and bonding. The best part about the UAE leg is the fact that we have won more matches (three) than we have lost (two)," Dravid told mediapersons during a promotional event in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The performance in the UAE leg will be a great confidence booster as they now head into the India leg of the tournament.

"We have played some very good cricket in the UAE and that keeps us in good stead. We now head into the India leg where the competition will be equally tough as all teams are evenly matched."

The former India captain and Test stalwart tried to look at the positive aspect of playing the Sardar Patel Stadium in Motera after BCCI ruled out their home ground Sawai Man Singh Stadium (SMS), a venue that had turned into a virtual fortress for the Royals where they did not lose a single home match last year.

"We really had a good time in Jaipur -- on and off the field. We were able to create a huge fan base and people out there were very nice and warm. Ahmedabad certainly will be different but we hope to have an equally good time there too. I myself have played a lot of cricket there. Hopefully, we will have 'two nice homes' now," the 41-year-old tried to look at the positives.

Dravid on his part said that the team management is trying to make all the players comfortable, even those who are not a part of the playing unit. "It's never an easy decision to drop players. We played last time with 23 players. We try and give everyone time to prepare and make them feel a part of the unit. It is a new team with 15 fresh players and we are gelling well at the moment," Dravid said.